Extreme Cold Causing Leaks

January 22, 2009

Due to the extreme temperatures, the DC Water and Sewer Authority (DC WASA) has experienced a large volume of calls regarding water leaks and water-related issues. Our crews have been working around the clock since the recent cold spell, to investigate leak complaints, low pressure and no water and to perform construction repairs. Our efforts to reduce the backlog are impacted by the on-going volume of new calls being reported every day.

WASA prioritizes leaks based on severity; factors such as customer safety and potential public space damage are considered when prioritizing work. Potential environmental impact is also assessed in the prioritization and repair process.

We apologize for any inconvenience and we appreciate your bringing your concerns to our attention.

Please let us know if the problem you reported has not been addressed. You may contact us by calling our fully staffed 24 hour Command Center at 202-612-3400.

Latest News

Picture of flow back in the Potomac Interceptor

DC Water Celebrates Massive 55-Day Effort, Outlines Next Steps for Rehabilitation and Environmental Restoration

After 55 days of extraordinary effort with crews working around the clock, DC Water has successfully completed emergency repairs and returned the flow to the Potomac Interceptor to mark a major milestone.

graphic with meeting times

Second Meeting Scheduled in Bethesda; Community Forum in Alexandria Next Week

As DC Water nears completion of emergency repairs on the Potomac Interceptor sewer line, we remain committed to transparent communication and partnership with our community. Next week, two meetings are scheduled on March 18, in Bethesda, MD and March 19, in Alexandria, VA to hear from the community and provide informational updates.

Photo of PI ready for return of flow
  • DC Water has completed final site preparations to return the flow to the Potomac Interceptor, marking and important milestone after 33 consecutive days without an overflow to the Potomac River.
  • The ...

Upcoming Meeting

Board of Directors Meeting

April 24, 2023

Monday 9:00 AM

Announcement

Map of lane closure
Traffic Advisory: Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway NW Lane Closure Beginning Jan 19

Beginning on or about January 19, 2026, weather permitting, DC Water will implement a temporary lane closure on Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway NW b

Latest Blog Post
A helicopter lowers a drill rig to workers on the Potomac River.
DC Water begins drilling in Potomac River to explore options to rehab underwater sewer line
When one of your major sewer lines runs through the Potomac River, a backhoe and trencher won't do. That's why we've got helicopters carrying a 14-ton drill and workers suspended midair over the Potomac.
Upcoming Meeting
Date
March 19, 2026
Thursday, 9:30 AM

Upcoming Events

Customer Service Center Announcement

Payment Plan Incentive: provides a credit back of 50% of the last 3 payments made. Eligible participants are residential customers who have had an outstanding balance for 60 days or greater and with an outstanding balance of $500 or more.